Air Fryer Corn Ribs with Buttery Seasoning and Spicy Mayo Recipe
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Corn Ribs coated in a buttery, spicy seasoning blend and topped with grated cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a fun appetizer or side dish with a creamy spicy mayo dip.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients
Corn Ribs
- 3 Fresh Corn Cobs
- 4 tablespoons Butter
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Cumin
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoons Grated Cotija or Parmesan Cheese
- Fresh Cilantro, optional
Spicy Mayo
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
Instructions
- Prepare Corn Ribs: Using a cutting board, cut the ends off of each corn cob. Then cut each cob down the center vertically by teetering a sharp knife back and forth carefully. Avoid placing fingers below to prevent injury.
- Cut Into Ribs: Place each corn half with the kernels facing up and the rib side down. Cut each half lengthwise again, then cut each piece in half along the short edge to create 8 long rib pieces per cob.
- Butter the Corn: Melt the butter in the microwave and brush it generously over all the corn ribs to coat well.
- Air Fry the Corn Ribs: Arrange the corn ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400℉ for 6 minutes, then rotate or flip the ribs and cook an additional 6 minutes until crispy and golden. You may need to cook in batches.
- Make Spicy Mayo: While the corn cooks, mix mayonnaise and sriracha together in a small bowl until smooth.
- Prepare Seasoning Blend: In another small bowl, combine chili powder, paprika, salt, garlic powder, cumin, and black pepper thoroughly.
- Season and Assemble: Transfer the cooked corn ribs to a large bowl. Sprinkle with the prepared seasoning blend and top with grated Cotija or Parmesan cheese. Add freshly chopped cilantro if desired.
- Add Sauce and Serve: Drizzle the spicy mayo over the corn ribs or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Be careful when cutting the corn to avoid finger injuries as the knife can suddenly slip through the cob quickly.
- If your air fryer basket is small, cook the corn ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even crispiness.
- Using Cotija cheese gives a traditional Mexican flavor, but Parmesan can be a great alternative.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the mayo to your preferred spice level.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
